Truths vs. myths about how to save on gas

CaptionFiction

AP Photo/Amy Sancetta

FICTION: Use a do-it-yourself fuel additive We've heard of everything from acetone to mothballs to WD-40 being added to the gas, and though some users claim a modest increase in mileage, the additives can cost more than any gas savings can justify. Plus, good luck in getting manufacturers to honor any warranty claims if they learn you have been using unauthorized additives.

FICTION: Use a do-it-yourself fuel additive We've heard of everything from acetone to mothballs to WD-40 being added to the gas, and though some users claim a modest increase in mileage, the additives can cost more than any gas savings can justify. Plus, good luck in getting manufacturers to honor any warranty claims if they learn you have been using unauthorized additives. (AP Photo/Amy Sancetta)

FICTION: Choose a manual transmission Not always, but usually -- probably four out of five times, the manual ekes out a slight mileage advantage. The real advantage of the manual is that it can cost as much as $1,200 less than the automatic.

FICTION: Choose a manual transmission Not always, but usually -- probably four out of five times, the manual ekes out a slight mileage advantage. The real advantage of the manual is that it can cost as much as $1,200 less than the automatic. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)